Authorities Order Evacuations Near Purple Line Tunnel Collapse
Authorities have ordered evacuations near a Purple Line subway tunnel collapse site at Wachirawuthit intersection, where newly discovered cracks and water leaks threaten surrounding buildings. Engineers are sealing tunnel entrances and inje
Authorities have issued evacuation and asset relocation orders for areas near newly discovered cracks adjacent to a road collapse at the Purple Line subway tunnel construction site at the Wachirawuthit intersection, to prevent potential risks and safety hazards.
On July 9, authorities reported progress on water leaks seeping into the catch basin beneath the Purple Line tunnel construction at the Wachirawuthit roundabout. Prime Minister Anutin Charnvirakul visited the site the previous night to closely monitor conditions and assess water levels accumulating beneath the tunnel.
Deputy Transport Minister Siripon Angskul disclosed that engineers are considering sealing both tunnel entrances and injecting water into the system to maintain balanced pressure inside and outside the tunnel, preventing soil and sand from seeping in. Fast-hardening chemical concrete will be injected externally to reinforce the tunnel structure—currently seen as the most appropriate approach.
Several surrounding buildings, particularly those fitted with monitoring sensors since yesterday, show minor tilting. Upon inspection alongside building extension patterns, new cracks appear possible. However, these buildings are currently unoccupied. Officials are progressively inspecting all structures, and contractors will compensate and assist affected parties if damage is found. The urgent priority is controlling and resolving the situation quickly.
Business buildings still in operation will receive warnings to avoid occupancy during the risk period. Civilian evacuation awaits engineer assessments; evacuation plans will proceed if necessary. The approximately 20-centimeter subsidence affects only the road surface, not the buildings, with current problems isolated to the left side of the tunnel where the water leak occurred.
The Department of Disaster Prevention and Mitigation (DDPM), Bangkok, and the Mass Transit System (BTS) are monitoring surrounding areas, particularly Prachatipok Road. They have advised residents and business operators in nearby crack zones to evacuate and relocate assets to prevent risks and safety hazards. Nearby shops, businesses, and buildings are beginning to move assets out of the area for safety.
